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September in Iceland is the perfect time to enjoy the fall colors, experience the Icelandic réttir and see the northern lights. Keep reading to learn more about September in Iceland.
Dress for the Weather
You know what the internet says: Winter is coming! And honestly, our cold ears can tell too.
Pair a beanie with a warm sweater (Icelandic wool anyone?) and a light jacket. You can also bring out the winter parka if you feel so inclined. September has an average high of 52°F (11°C) and an average low of 43°F (6°C). However, given the unruly temperament of the Icelandic weather gods, it’s best to come prepared and dress in layers.
Your umbrella is no good here
September brings beautiful fall colors and often rain but remember, your umbrella is no good here. Icelandic rain falls left right and even up but rarely straight down and the winds are likely to grab your umbrella faster than you can – stick to your raincoat and waterproof shoes.
September in Iceland:Round-em Up!
Icelandic sheep run wild in the highlands during summer gorging on grasses, berries and mushrooms while enjoying the midnight sun. Now that fall is upon us, farmers will be flocking to the mountains with friends, family and whoever else wants to lend a helping hand to round up the sheep and bring them down.
This process is called göngur and is immediately followed by réttir where the sheep are sorted, usually in a wooden sheepfold. Farmers and volunteers herd the sheep into an inner circle surrounded by compartments assigned to each farm. Then, going by their earmarks, they are dragged into the appropriate pens. It’s a tradition filled with food, drinks and dances known as réttarböll. This is also a time to be thankful for Icelandic sheep which supply Icelanders with fresh meat and warm wool.
Many farmers are happy to have tourists take part. Make sure to ask our reception if there are réttir happening during your stay.
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Don’t miss the colors
The roads into Landmannalaugar will close for the winter in mid-September in Iceland, but now is the perfect time to see the highlands in all their colorful glory. Please note that it’s incredibly important to have the right equipment and appropriate vehicles, you may even want to take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit. Contact our reception for information about tours, guides and safety in the highlands.
Lastly, we recommend simply looking up on dark, cloudless nights, for a chance to see the dance of the Northern lights.
